For Black women, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second-leading cause of cancer death after lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. While Black women and white women get breast cancer at about the same rate, Black women are 40% more likely to die from the disease, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study.
Given this alarming disparity Black women should know about their breast health, breast cancer risk and have the facts to dispel myths in the event of a breast cancer diagnosis.
1. Know the facts.
Researchers are working to better understand why there’s such a big disparity in breast cancer outcomes between Black and white women. Access to care is an issue, but other factors include genetics and tumor biology. Doctors and researchers used to believe breast disparities were primarily due to lack of access to healthcare, and then policies were implemented that actually improved mammography screening and insurance availability, and yet the disparity still exists.
Research indicates that genetics may play a part in this higher risk disparity, and the risk may differ depending on a Black woman’s ancestry, specifically in cases of triple-negative breast cancer. Black women are more likely to have triple-negative breast cancer, a rarer but more aggressive form that does not respond to hormonal treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, triple-negative breast cancer is about twice as common in Black women than white women in the U.S., and a contributor to the lower breast cancer survival rate among Black patients. It’s important that Black women know their risk for breast cancer, so that they can educate themselves and be proactive about their health.
2. Get screened — and bring a friend.
Early detection is the best protection. Even though Black women are more likely to have triple-negative breast cancer, if we catch these women at the earliest stage of that breast cancer, there is a better chance for survival.
The American Cancer Society says women should have the choice to start screening with yearly mammograms as early as age 40 if they want to and recommends women should begin having yearly mammograms by age 45, which can change to every other year beginning at age 55. If you have a family history, you should start screenings earlier. Black women are more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age with the more aggressive tumor subtype, so the recommendation is that they begin annual screens starting at the age of 40.
If you’re nervous about getting a mammogram, make an agreement with a friend so you can hold each other accountable and have moral support.
3. Don’t believe myths.
There is understandably a lot of fear around a breast cancer diagnosis, but it is important to be aware of the many advances made in care. Some patients have expressed concern that if they receive a diagnosis of cancer and have surgery, the surgery could cause the cancer to spread. This is false.
There have been reports that women may believe that surgeons will have to remove their breasts, which is also not true. We now have several modern approaches to breast surgery such as lumpectomy or breast-conserving surgery, which only removes a portion of the breast. These and other myths, coupled with a valid fear of COVID, may be widening the gap of women not getting their mammograms right now. But it’s important to remember early detection saves lives.
Do not let a fear of COVID stop you from getting your mammograms. COVID is real, but women should know it is safe to come into the hospital to get their mammogram. It is a risk-benefit situation. Wear a mask, practice social distancing, and use hand sanitizer to balance that risk and get your mammogram!
4. Know your breasts.
Women must practice breast self-exam every month. If there is an abnormality, women are often the first to detect it. Signs to look for include nipple discharge, a lump, or any skin changes.
Clinical breast exams are important at least yearly with a licensed practitioner.
It is important to pay attention to changes in your body, take charge of your health and take care of your life. The African American Breast Cancer Alliance encourages women to learn about breast health and breast cancer. Do not ignore changes in your breasts or delay seeing a healthcare provider if you find a problem. Review the Breast Cancer 411 link for more information. Learn how to do a Breast Self-Exam (BSE) with this video. And recognize these early signs and symptoms of breast cancer to know when to seek help and medical attention.
Sources:
• African American Breast Cancer Alliance
• American Cancer Society
• Breast Cancer Research Foundation
• Health Matters
